TMJ Therapy
Jaw pain can be simple and complex all at the same time! Oftentimes, jaw pain comes on suddenly without warning and can affect people for years. Sometimes the solution is simple and requires a biomechanical approach in resetting the jaw so that the intricate structures that allow us to open/chew can stop being irritated. The jaw is a one-of-a-kind joint in the body and often requires clinicians who have had further training to learn to treat this area.
Our training for the evaluation and treatment of TMJ disorders comes from the instruction of Dr. Michael Karegeannes PT, CCTT, and a leading dental professional in the field of TMJD, Dr. Daniel Klauer, DDS. Oftentimes, dentists and PTs work together to come up with a solution to improve a patients’ jaw discomfort.
What does TMJ therapy entail?
Improving Mandibular/jaw translation
Education on mandibular placement at rest and when chewing
Exercises to improve cervical posture
Headaches and jaw pain are commonly linked together
Manual therapy/release to improve jaw tension, including:
Mobilizations, soft tissue release, dry needling, cervical mobilization
Who is a candidate for TMJ Therapy?
Generally speaking, TMD therapy can help individuals that have the following:
· Pain with opening/closing of the mouth
· Unequal or uneven jaw opening
· Clicking/popping in the jaw (both painful and non painful)
· Clenching of the jaw
· Headaches associated with jaw pain
· Cervical/neck pain
· Poor posture
